Also as for rate move even on less rate sensitive markets substantial change in market over last three weeks so if they don’t have a lock option like traditional loan that move is not surprising.

Does anyone have feedback on the idea of presenting the tenants with a choice between two leases? 

The DTI number should have been calculated in 15 minutes from when they applied and sent taxes, and offer choices.

100% Personal choice. 

Belmont, Mt Holly, and Concord allow you to use 85 while Pineville & Matthews are going to be more contingent on 485 or 74(traffic traditionally much worse) to get Uptown or to Southend.

But, my duplex house-hack and rentals were probably a better choice for me based on my finances and other life pursuits when I got into real estate within the last 2 years.

Most lenders, hard money and traditional, require a resting period on the loan before a cash out is allowed.

I'll be shocked if you can actually get much cash flow out of them (unless you are putting 50%+ down payment) once you factor in the taxes and high HOA fees but sounds like this is more of a lifestyle choice.

Since this was our primary residence, we went a traditional route through a realtor.

Then they can make their own choice if they're willing to wait if you have to go through an eviction to get them out.